By Dr. Vini Jhariya | Child & Clinical Psychologist | Founder, Urjasvini Child Development Center, Indore
From that very first cuddle to the first tiny tantrum, your child is already learning a powerful language — the language of emotions. Long before they learn to speak, infants and toddlers are developing vital emotional and social skills that shape how they connect with the world.
The first three years of life are foundational for social-emotional development. It’s during this time that your child learns trust, empathy, emotional regulation, and the basics of forming healthy relationships.
As a parent or caregiver, your daily interactions — even the smallest ones — play a key role in nurturing your child’s emotional growth.
In this blog, we’ll explore age-appropriate activities, backed by clinical insight, that promote emotional resilience, secure bonding, and empathy in young children.
Social-Emotional Milestones: What to Expect by Age
| Age Range | Common Social-Emotional Milestones |
| Birth–6 months | Eye contact, smiles, responds to soothing |
| 6–12 months | Expresses joy and distress, imitates emotional expressions |
| 12–24 months | Shows early empathy, identifies emotions in others |
| 24–36 months | Names emotions, begins turn-taking, shows pride in achievements |
Social-Emotional Activities for Infants (0 to 18 Months)
1. Close Contact & Eye Engagement
Frequent holding, gentle eye contact, and soft smiling build secure attachment — the emotional foundation your baby will rely on for years to come.
2. Emotion-Based Story Time
Choose picture books with expressive faces. As you read, name and explain the emotions shown:
“The bunny looks sad. Can you see his face?”
This helps infants associate facial cues with feelings.
3. Emotional Puppet Play
Use hand puppets or soft toys to act out simple emotions like happiness, sleepiness, or surprise. Comfort the “sad” puppet together to model empathy and caring.
Social-Emotional Activities for Toddlers (18 Months to 2+ Years)
1. Pretend to Play with Stuffed Animals or Dolls
Role-play emotional moments — like bedtime, feeling scared, or sharing toys. Ask,
“What can the teddy do if he feels angry?”
This builds both emotional vocabulary and problem-solving skills.
2. Create a Personal ‘Feelings Book’
Take photos of your child expressing different emotions (happy, silly, sad). Print them and create a DIY book you can flip through together to discuss each emotion.
3. Sing Feelings Songs
Adapt familiar tunes like “If You’re Happy and You Know It” to include different emotions:
“If you’re sad and you know it, hug your teddy!”
This makes emotional learning fun and engaging.
Parenting Strategies That Support Emotional Growth
1. Respect Individual Temperament
Every child has a unique emotional rhythm. Some may be more sensitive or slow to warm up. Recognizing and honoring your child’s temperament helps them feel seen and safe.
2. Model Healthy Emotional Expression
Be vocal about your feelings. For example:
“I’m a little tired, so I’m resting.”
This teaches emotional awareness and regulation by example.
3. Stay Present and Supportive During Big Emotions
When your child is overwhelmed or upset, your calm, non-judgmental presence is key. Being emotionally available during meltdowns builds lifelong emotional security.
Signs Your Child May Need Extra Support
While every child develops differently, some early indicators may point to the need for professional guidance:
- No eye contact or smiles by 6 months
- Limited interest in people or play by 12 months
- Rarely responds to their name
- Doesn’t show separation anxiety or affection by 18 months
Early support is not about labeling — it’s about empowering your child to thrive.
Why Social-Emotional Development Matters
Strong emotional development in early childhood is linked to:
- Better relationship skills
- Stronger learning readiness
- Healthy behavior regulation
- Long-term emotional wellbeing
Social-emotional growth isn’t “extra” — it’s essential.
Emotional Bonding Begins With Presence
Supporting your child’s emotional world doesn’t require fancy gadgets or a perfect routine — it starts with consistent love, meaningful connection, and mindful presence.
Through simple activities and your responsive care, you’re helping build:
- A secure emotional attachment
- The language of emotions
- A resilient, empathetic little human